![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/download-1024x600.jpg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCredit: Visit Essex<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCredit: Visit Essex<\/p>\n
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As somebody who buys themselves a treat or a trinket as a reward for completing \u2013 quite literally \u2013 any task; I\u2019m rather invested (both emotionally and financially) in London\u2019s many markets<\/strong>. In my humble opinion; there are very few better ways to while away the hours than by strolling around a street market<\/a>, perusing knick-knacks and purchasing loaves of bread that cost almost as much as an entire weekly food shop.<\/p>\n However, as wonderful as the capital\u2019s retail offerings are<\/strong>; it\u2019s nice to broaden the horizons sometimes, isn\u2019t it? So if you (like me) have somewhat exhausted London\u2019s abundance of markets<\/a>, please allow us to point you in the direction of a market that lies just outside of the capital city<\/a>. A market that dates back to the 11th century, and has recently been named one of the best in the country<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Chelmsford Market <\/p>\n Having been a commercial hub since the medieval times, the historic city of Chelmsford<\/strong> has been holding markets in its centre since the 11th century. A permanent market set up shop in 1199, when the Bishop of London was granted permission from King John to hold a weekly market<\/strong> on his land. The market attracted traders from far and wide, quickly becoming a vital cog in Chelmsford\u2019s machine. And, to be honest, folks \u2013 the rest is history. A much-loved market<\/strong> still stands on the site to this very day, offering the perfect spot to browse, buy, and bag a bargain.<\/p>\n Chelmsford is home to both an indoor and an outdoor market<\/strong>. The indoor market is open Tuesdays-Saturdays, whilst the High Street market only opens on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Both are vibrant and bustling<\/strong>, providing the perfect platform for local and family-run businesses to thrive.<\/p>\n With a simple rummage around, you can find pretty much anything at the markets. From flowers, fruit, and furniture to toys, trinkets, and trainers<\/strong>; there\u2019s plenty to peruse. There\u2019s also a wide selection of food vendors on hand, serving up a selection of fresh, local produce. There\u2019s a butcher, there\u2019s a baker<\/a>, I\u2019m unsure as to whether there\u2019s a candlestick maker \u2013 but it wouldn\u2019t particularly surprise me.<\/p>\n Both markets are award-winning, but the most recent accolade was given to Chelmsford High Street Market<\/strong>. In September the beloved market was named small market of the year by the National Association of British Market Authorities<\/strong>. Not bad, hey?<\/p>\n Getting to Chelmsford Market from London <\/p>\n Chelmsford is just a hop, skip, and a jump 30 minute direct train-ride from Liverpool Street<\/a>. The markets are then a short stroll away from Chelmsford station. Drivers can expect the journey to Chelmsford from London to take around an hour<\/strong>, and there\u2019s plenty of pay-and-display parking available nearby.<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CHELMSFORD_The_Market_Essex_-_Unposted_-_RP_Postcard_50607333796.jpg\")
Credit: Mark Crombie, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons <\/p>\n![\"People](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/shutterstock_2580481247-min.jpg\")
Credit: Laurence Berger, Shutterstock <\/p>\n